Family-friendly things to do at Paycocke's
Nestled in the village of Coggeshall, Paycocke's House and Gardens offers families a charming escape into history and nature. Explore the beautifully preserved Tudor rooms and stroll through the serene gardens, where children can discover hidden nooks, vibrant blooms and a selection of garden games. It's a perfect spot for a day of shared discovery and lasting memories.
Planning your family visit
Here's the information you need at a glance to make the most of your family day out at Paycockes:
- Baby changing facilities are located near garden entrance and toilet on first floor of the house
- The house ground floor and garden is accessible to pushchairs
- A selection of family-friendly games can often be found in the gardens or in the house, check our events page for details
Family friendly events
Summer of Play
19 Juy - 31 August 2025
This summer, step into a season of outdoor adventure with Summer of Play in our Nature Garden. A free, family-friendly experience designed to spark curiosity and creativity. From lively puppet theatre and timeless games like hoop-la, to crafting wild art and tuning into birdsong with our new bird buttons, there’s plenty to delight young explorers. Open daily throughout the summer holidays. No booking needed, just head to admissions on arrival.
Robin Hood at Grange Barn
Thursday 24 July
Come and meet Robin and his Gang as they battle against the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and steal from the rich to give to the poor. Backed by Prince John, the Sheriff holds Nottingham in the grip of high taxes, can Robin finally stop them from ruining everything and set the people of Nottingham free? With the merry men at the ready, and help from a certain young maid, the battle is on. From songs around the campfire to archery competitions and sword fights the story of Robin Hood is brought to life in a fun and entertaining way for all generations and fans of this adventurous legend.
Full of memorable characters, silliness, songs and charm this production is an hour of pure escapism which will leave all the family with a smile on their face!
Family things to do all year round
In the Solar Room
We have a range of original old books and games for hands-on fun. Have a go at Bagatelle, Shove Ha'penny, Snakes and Ladders, and Bar Skittles; help to build a jigsaw; get down on the rug with the toys; and read the books. You can also play with an old telephone.
Please note this room is only available to National Trust members or visitors with valid tickets.
Paycocke's Garden Trail
The garden trail is the perfect way to get to grips with nature and to have fun as a family. The trail helps explorers to find out more about our house and garden.
Garden games
The lawn is the perfect setting for some authentic garden games. Our croquet set is always out in good weather and is fun for all ages. If you fancy a challenge, try the quoits game and see how far away you can score with your hoop.
Family Friendly Events
Summer of Play
Coming summer 2025
Enjoy simple summer pleasures as a family at Paycocke’s House where the cottage garden is a haven for little ones to picnic, explore and play. Discover a fun selection of games and activities or marvel at the stunning summer blooms. When you're finished, be sure to grab a coffee, cream tea or sweet treat from the tea-room.
Family self-guided Days
Coming summer 2025
During school holidays, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the house will be open for you to visit at your own pace, with family-focussed facts and activities in every room.
Visit Coggeshall
Explore Coggeshall, a town overflowing with character and home to Paycocke’s.
Look out for
- Coggeshall Grange Barn Just under half a mile from Paycocke's stands one of Europe's oldest timber-framed buildings, often described as 'cathedral like'.
- The Abbey The remains of a 12th-century Cistercian Abbey complex founded by King Stephen in 1140. The monks chose this site for its peaceful surroundings and proximity to the river.
- Coggeshall Museum Home to a variety of village treasures including a fine collection of Coggeshall lace.
- Parish church of St Peter ad Vincula Built in the early 15th century and funded by wealthy wool merchants, this church is one of the largest in the area. Look for the Paycocke’s merchant mark.
- River Blackwater Feed the ducks and soak up the tranquillity surrounding the river Blackwater.
- Market Place Browse the boutiques and independent shops that dot the high street. Visit the market which runs each Thursday.
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Booking your visit to Paycocke's House
Explore the unexpected at Paycocke’s. Entry to the house is by guided tours, led by passionate and knowledgeable volunteers, which will reveal the hidden treasures and stories of the house. To guarantee your preferred time slot you may wish to book a tour in advance. Find out how, here.
Explore Paycocke's garden
Discover how an overgrown industrial yard is now an Arts and Crafts garden, featuring plants that would have been grown over the previous five centuries of the house’s existence.
Visiting Paycocke's
Uncover the story behind Paycocke’s House, a glorious example of Tudor craftmanship with quaint beamed rooms. There’s so much to discover here in this unique merchant’s home.
The history of Paycocke's
Paycocke’s has an intriguing history spanning more than 500 years. Constructed in 1509, it has witnessed a religious reformation and survived a civil war.
Eating at Paycocke's
Visit our tea room for a light lunch or tea and cake stop during your visit to Paycocke’s.
Visit Paycocke's sister property Grange Barn
One of Europe’s oldest timber-framed buildings, Grange Barn stands as a lasting reminder of the once-powerful Coggeshall Abbey. With oak pillars soaring up to a cathedral-like roof, bearing the weight of centuries, it was saved and restored in the 1980s. This 13th-century building has truly stood the test of time.
Visiting Paycocke's House and Garden with your dog
Dogs on leads are welcome in the garden at Paycocke's. Access to the house and tea-room is restricted to assistance dogs only.
Events at Paycocke's House and Garden
Search our upcoming events including our seasonal trails, immersive experience weekends and play